Karaoke = serious business

You may think that karaoke in Japan is all fun and games; a harmless, albeit self-indulgent, hobby. Well, let me assure you that it is serious business. The karaoke industry is a veritable cash-cow (in metropolitan areas, you can find multiple-story karaoke lounges on almost every block), and the highlight of many social gatherings. It's not unusual for men and women of all ages to spend several thousand yen (not to mention maaaany hours closeted away) singing their hearts out.

Don't believe me? Take into consideration the fancy-pants decor of one of the upscale karaoke places I had the pleasure of visiting last May.


Note the saucy, boudoir-esque chandelier


Nothing says class quite like sparkly, pink-split mirrors

That's right, Japanese karaoke does not mess around. With it's large plasma screens, handheld controls, cheesy music videos, and thousands upon thousands of songs to choose from, the novelty just doesn't seem to wear off. Did I mention that free drinks come with the price of the room, and that you can order any sort of snack/appetizer/meal and have it brought up to you by your own temporary slave host? (We ordered chocolate pocky and whipped cream; go ahead and admire our discerning tastes!)


Getting in the mood...


Hitomi works her magic to one of Ayumi Hamasaki's songs


We're ready for our close-up!

Love it and miss it like the guilty pleasure it is. There's nothing quite like belting out Rihanna's "Umbrella" with a group of friends bopping their heads in unison to the "ella, ella, ella, eh, eh, eh" bit.